You find a new home you like. The builder is advertising a huge incentive—maybe $10,000, $20,000, or even more toward closing costs or financing. So you ask what seems like an obvious question: “If you’re willing to give me $20,000, why not just take $20,000 off the price of the house?” And the builder […]

What Is Title Insurance? When you buy a home, you’re not just purchasing the structure – you’re also buying its legal history. Title insurance protects you from financial loss if there are problems, or “defects,” with that legal ownership. A title defect could include: Unpaid property taxes Liens from contractors or previous owners Mistakes in […]

Hidden and Expected Costs of Buying a Home: A Budgeting Guide for Buyers When you’re getting ready to buy a home, the listing price is just one piece of the puzzle. Beyond the cost of the house itself, there are several expenses-some predictable, others less obvious-that can impact your budget. Whether you’re a first-time buyer […]

If you’ve been house hunting in the Charlotte metro area, you’ve probably come across the term HOA more than once. But what exactly is an HOA, and how does it affect your decision when buying a home? What is an HOA? An HOA (Homeowners Association) is a governing body responsible for managing a residential community. […]